STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Chimera"
(fka "Untitled Odo")
#40510-564
Written by
Rene Echevarria
Directed by
Steve Posey
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1998 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
Return to Script Department FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
November 18, 1998
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Chimera"
CAST
SISKO CHANGELING
KIRA KLINGON
ODO DEPUTY
BASHIR
O'BRIEN
WORF
EZRI
QUARK
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES N.D KLINGON
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Chimera"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
CAPTAIN'S OFFICE RUNABOUT
PROMENADE/LOWER LEVEL
PROMENADE/SECOND LEVEL
ODO'S QUARTERS
SECURITY OFFICE
QUARK'S
KIRA'S QUARTERS/BEDROOM
HABITAT RING CORRIDOR
HOLDING CELLS
AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
REPLIMAT
RUNABOUT
DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Chimera"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
VARALA vuh-RAW-luh
VARALLANS vuh-RAW-luhns
SPACE-DIZEN space DIE-zen
LAAS LAH-z
VOLG volg
KORALIS kuh-RAWL-uhs
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Chimera"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL)
traveling at impulse.
2 INT. RUNABOUT
ODO is in the cockpit, studying a small GLASS
KNICKKNACK. As he holds it up to the light, its
faceted surface twinkles with color.
O'BRIEN ENTERS from the back, having just woken from
a nap. He's wearing his hand phaser.
O'BRIEN
(moving to the
replicator)
How long was I asleep?
ODO
Almost two hours.
O'Brien's surprised to hear he was asleep that long,
gets a MUG of coffee from the replicator.
O'BRIEN
(noticing)
You dropped out of warp -- we
must be getting close to home.
ODO
(nods)
We entered the Bajoran system a
few minutes ago.
O'BRIEN
(taking a seat)
What's that?
ODO
The shopkeeper I bought it from
called it a knickknack.
O'BRIEN
I didn't know you collected
knickknacks.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
ODO
It's a present for Kira.
O'Brien's features falter at hearing this.
ODO
(misunderstanding)
You don't think she'll like it?
O'BRIEN
I'm sure she will. It's just...
I didn't get anything for Keiko.
ODO
(trying to make him
feel better)
The conference kept you pretty
busy...
O'BRIEN
(kicking himself)
You made time to get something.
O'Brien's eyes fall to a small wooden BOX sitting on
the console next to Odo, labeled with alien lettering.
O'BRIEN
Not chocolates too?
ODO
Rigelian chocolates. Her
favorite.
O'Brien eyes them for a beat.
O'BRIEN
I'll buy them from you.
ODO
I beg your pardon?
O'BRIEN
I'll buy them from you. Come on,
Odo, you don't need to give Kira
two presents. We were only gone
a day.
ODO
I'm sorry, but the answer's no.
O'Brien is about to protest when a proximity ALARM
SOUNDS and the ship goes to RED ALERT -- both men
turn to their consoles to find out what it is.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
There's something behind us.
ODO
And it's gaining fast.
3 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL)
as a spacefaring LIFEFORM rapidly approaches. Its
body is smooth and cylindrical, and it propels
itself with a pulsating motion. As it "swims"
alongside the Runabout, we see that it's almost as
big as the ship.
4 INT. RUNABOUT (OPTICAL)
THROUGH THE WINDOW, Odo and O'Brien see the creature
swimming in front of the runabout.
O'BRIEN
You think it's friendly?
ODO
I hope so.
O'BRIEN
It certainly seems to have taken
an interest in us.
Suddenly the creature DROPS BACK OUT OF THEIR SIGHT.
A beat, then it SLAMS against the side of the
runabout, JOSTLING them in their seats.
O'BRIEN
Uh-oh.
ODO
(off console)
It's gone.
O'BRIEN
What?
ODO
(puzzled)
According to the sensors, there's
nothing out there.
O'BRIEN
Where'd it go?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 4.
4 CONTINUED:
A strange SOUND from behind them gets their
attention. They exchange puzzled looks, move to
investigate. Suddenly the SOUND again, from a
different part of the runabout. It's almost like
something is moving around behind the walls.
The SOUND again, this time from near a VENT situated
near the back of the compartment.
They move to it cautiously. As they lean close to
listen, a mass of changeling PROTOPLASM suddenly
SHOOTS from the vent.
5 ODO AND O'BRIEN
as they jump back, turn to look behind them.
ODO
A changeling.
6 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL)
as it MORPHS into humanoid form. Although its face
is similar to Odo's in that its features are smooth
and somewhat ill-defined, it's modeled on a humanoid
species we've never seen before.
It's definitely male, and we get the sense that he's a
bit more adept at mimicking faces than Odo, as his
features are more expressive. He wears alien-looking
CLOTHES that are more practical than decorative.
O'Brien trains his weapon on him, but the
changeling's attention is fixed on Odo alone. Off
this moment, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 5.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
7 INT. RUNABOUT - MOMENTS LATER
O'Brien keeps his weapon trained on the intruder,
whose eyes are fixed on Odo. The Changeling carries
himself with a proud bearing, and when he speaks
it's with a direct, urgent manner.
O'BRIEN
Stay where you are, or I'll fire.
The Changeling ignores him, stares at Odo.
CHANGELING
You -- you're a Metamorph?
ODO
I'm a changeling, yes.
The Changeling can't believe he's finally found
another of his kind.
CHANGELING
(to Odo)
Tell the mono-form to put down
its weapon.
Odo isn't about to do any such thing until he gets
some answers.
ODO
Why did you board our ship?
CHANGELING
Because I sensed you were here.
I had to see if it was true -- if
I'd finally found another
Metamorph.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 6.
7 CONTINUED:
ODO
You've never met another
Shape-shifter?
CHANGELING
(stepping forward)
I've been trying to find others
of my kind for a long time.
O'BRIEN
(brandishing his
phaser)
I told you to stay where you
were.
O'Brien can see that Odo's starting to believe the
Changeling's story, but he's not so sure.
O'BRIEN
How do we know he's not a
Founder?
The Changeling doesn't seem to recognize the word.
ODO
He isn't.
(trusting his
instincts)
He's one of the hundred.
CHANGELING
The hundred?
ODO
Over the centuries, our people
sent a hundred "infant"
changelings out into the galaxy.
We were to learn about other
species, and eventually return
home to share what we'd
experienced.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 7.
7 CONTINUED: (2)
The Changeling tries to make sense of what he's
being told.
CHANGELING
That would explain why I was
alone on Varala.
(to Odo)
I didn't even know what I was at
first... or that I could assume
other forms.
Odo can't help but be drawn in by someone who shared
the same experiences he did.
ODO
I was the same way.
O'Brien can see that Odo's buying the Changeling's
story, but he's not convinced.
O'BRIEN
Odo, I hate to interrupt... but
shouldn't we get him in a
containment field until we're
sure he's telling the truth?
Part of Odo knows he's right, but his instincts are
telling him it isn't necessary.
CHANGELING
(to Odo)
I'll allow myself to be taken
prisoner to show my good faith,
but only if you vouch for my
safety.
(eyeing O'Brien)
I don't trust humanoids.
Odo nods, sealing the deal. Off this moment...
8 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Re-establishing.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 8.
9 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE
Odo has told SISKO about the changeling, and the
captain is wary about what he's heard.
SISKO
Where's is he now?
ODO
In a holding cell.
Odo sees that Sisko is understandably concerned
about this mysterious changeling, does his best to
put him at ease.
ODO
Captain, he's not a threat to us.
He's just a changeling who's
traveled a long way to find out
where he came from.
SISKO
So you believe his story?
ODO
Yes, sir.
But Sisko is unconvinced.
SISKO
How can we be sure he's not a
Founder?
ODO
If he were, he'd be infected with
the same disease that's
afflicting the entire Link. I
had Doctor Bashir scan him. His
morphogenic matrix is as stable
as mine.
Sisko considers this for a beat...
ODO
Sir, with your permission, I'd
like to release him.
SISKO
Constable, I'm sure you can
appreciate why I'd have
reservations about that. We're
at war with your people. And the
Founders have deceived us before.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 8A.
9 CONTINUED:
ODO
I realize that. But he's not a
Founder. He's one of the
hundred, I'm sure of it.
(beat)
Sir, I'm asking you to trust me
on this.
Sisko studies Odo for a beat; he can see how much
this means to him. Fighting his reservations, he
gives in because he feels he owes it to Odo.
SISKO
All right, Constable.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 9.
9 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO (Cont'd)
I'm releasing him into your
custody.
Odo's elated, but as always, he doesn't show it.
ODO
Thank you, sir.
Off Sisko as he watches Odo go, hoping he's doing
the right thing...
10 INT. PROMENADE - UPPER LEVEL
Odo and the Changeling walk and talk.
ODO
-- when I found out our people
were the leaders of the Dominion,
I realized I had no place with
them. This war they're fighting
is wrong.
CHANGELING
I can understand their distrust
of humanoids, but why try to
conquer them?
(glancing at the
passersby)
Better to avoid them altogether.
ODO
You don't much care for
humanoids.
CHANGELING
I know from experience they don't
much care for changelings.
ODO
I think you'll find the people
here are different.
CHANGELING
Oh?
ODO
They've accepted me.
The Changeling looks skeptical.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 10.
10 CONTINUED:
CHANGELING
Have they?
(beat)
Is that why you've stayed?
Odo isn't sure what he means.
ODO
I told you, I want no part of the
Founders.
CHANGELING
But what about the hundred that
were sent out -- haven't you ever
tried to find any of them?
ODO
No.
The Changeling seems surprised to hear this.
ODO
It's a big galaxy. They could be
anywhere.
CHANGELING
I found you.
Odo finds himself feeling a bit defensive.
ODO
I have a life here, friends.
The Changeling begins to realize something...
CHANGELING
When did you first take humanoid
form?
ODO
A little over thirty years ago.
CHANGELING
So that's it. This is all still
new to you. I spent the first
part of my life living among
humanoids, as well.
ODO
How long ago was that?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 11.
10 CONTINUED: (2)
CHANGELING
Over two hundred years.
(off Odo's surprise)
I must've been sent out earlier
than you.
ODO
(trying to make
sense of it)
Or it could be that I was adrift
for a long time before I was
found.
CHANGELING
Either way, it explains why
you've chosen to stay here. I
was fascinated by humanoid life
in the beginning, too.
Being treated like a "youngster" doesn't sit well
with Odo.
ODO
But you... lost interest.
CHANGELING
I found it... limiting.
(besides)
The Varalans never accepted me as
one of them. I wasn't able to
fully mimic their appearance.
ODO
Faces aren't easy.
CHANGELING
No. And humanoids aren't very
tolerant of difference.
ODO
Some of them are. There are
dozens of species living on this
station, and they tolerate each
other's differences quite well.
CHANGELING
(glancing around)
He has bumps on his forehead and
she has a wrinkled nose -- but
they're basically alike. They're
bipeds that eat, sleep and
breathe. You and I are nothing
like them.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 12.
10 CONTINUED: (3)
Odo doesn't see the problem --
ODO
We're changelings. We can be
like them when we choose.
CHANGELING
I choose to do so as little as
possible. That's where we differ.
Odo lets this go because he has no desire to argue
with him.
ODO
Why don't I show you where you'll
be staying?
The Changeling nods, and we cut to --
11 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR
as Odo and the Changeling ENTER.
ODO
You haven't told me your name.
CHANGELING
The Varalans called me Laas. In
their language it means
"changeable." Not very
imaginative, is it?
ODO
At least it's appropriate. My
name means "unknown sample." The
scientist who found me didn't
know what I was.
11A INT. ODO'S QUARTERS
They ENTER.
ODO
These are my quarters. I'll be
staying...
(with Kira, but he'd
rather not get into
it)
-- somewhere else. Feel free to
shape-shift as you please.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 12A.
11A CONTINUED:
ODO (cont'd)
Some of these forms are quite
interesting.
The Changeling runs his hand along the jungle-gym,
detecting a thin layer of dust.
CHANGELING
This hasn't been used in some
time.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 13.
11A CONTINUED: (2)
For some reason Odo finds himself feeling defensive
around this man, and his simple statement of fact
feels to him like an accusation.
ODO
I've been busy.
The Changeling notices a PICTURE of Kira sitting on
Odo's computer console.
CHANGELING
Who's this?
ODO
Her name's Kira.
The Changeling studies the picture for a beat
without comment.
CHANGELING
I had a mate once.
ODO
(surprised)
Oh?
CHANGELING
On Varala. Not long after I
assumed humanoid form.
ODO
What happened?
CHANGELING
We couldn't have children. That
was important to her.
This is a touchy subject for Odo, something he's
wondered about in his relationship with Kira.
CHANGELING
(with characteristic bluntness)
Is it something that matters to
this Kira?
ODO
We've never discussed it.
CHANGELING
Neither did we, at first.
Without his meaning to, the Changeling's words twist
Odo's heart.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 14.
11A CONTINUED: (3)
CHANGELING
Do our people reproduce?
ODO
It's a little more complicated
than that. In our natural state,
we don't exist as separate entities.
CHANGELING
I don't understand.
ODO
Our people spend most of their
time in the Link.
CHANGELING
The Link?
ODO
It involves... a melding into one
-- the merging of thought and
form, idea and sensation.
CHANGELING
You're speaking in riddles.
ODO
It's difficult to explain.
CHANGELING
Then don't. Show me.
ODO
Of course.
Odo realizes that the Changeling's right, there's no
need to use words. But why didn't he think of it
himself?
Odo approaches the Changeling and extends his hand
to him.
ODO
Take it.
Without hesitation, he reaches and clasps Odo's
hand.
12 CLOSE - THEIR HANDS (OPTICAL)
Odo's hand begins to MORPH around the Changeling's.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 15.
13 THE CHANGELING
reacts to the sensation. Then as if by instinct, he
allows --
14 HIS HAND (OPTICAL)
to go to a GELATINOUS state and merge with Odo's.
15 ODO
His features are calm, almost solemn, as if he
understands that it's a sacred trust to share the
Link with a changeling who hasn't experienced it
before.
16 ODO AND THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL)
As their bodies start to come together into A SINGLE
MASS OF ROILING SHAPESHIFTER ENERGY...
DISSOLVE TO:
16A INT. ODO'S QUARTERS - LATER (FORMERLY SCENE 17)
The Changeling is standing at the window staring out
at the stars. Odo watches from a discreet distance,
knowing he's gone through a profound experience.
CHANGELING
For the first time in my life...
I understand how I was meant to
exist...
The Changeling turns to look at Odo.
CHANGELING
You've given up a great deal to
stay here.
For the first time ever, Odo's met someone who can
fully understand that fact.
ODO
I have.
(beat)
But I won't have anything to do
with the Founders and their war.
The Changeling fixes him with a knowing look.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 15A.
16A CONTINUED:
CHANGELING
Odo, we Linked. I know the
truth. You've stayed because of
Kira. If it wasn't for her,
you'd be with our people. War or
no war, you'd be a Founder.
Ode's never had to face this truth about himself,
never had to hear it put into words. Off his face
as he struggles with what it means, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 16-17.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
17 OMITTED
18 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo is sitting at his desk, lost in thought, a few
PADDs all but ignored in front of him. A moment,
then KIRA ENTERS.
KIRA
Hi.
Odo snaps out of his reverie, offers her a smile.
ODO
Hello, Nerys.
KIRA
(happy for him)
I can't believe it. Another
changeling. What's he like?
ODO
He's... complicated.
KIRA
(gently teasing)
Like you.
She takes his hand, smiles. A beat, then she senses
something.
KIRA
Are you all right?
ODO
I'm fine.
KIRA
You seem... far away.
A beat, then Odo tells her why.
ODO
We Linked.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 18.
18 CONTINUED:
This is the first Kira's heard of it, and she's not
sure what to make of it.
KIRA
I see.
Odo realizes why she might be worried about it.
ODO
There's nothing to worry about.
He's not a Founder, he's not
trying to lure me to the
Dominion.
She nods, trying to shake off the unease she feels.
ODO
The Link is part of what we are.
It comes as naturally to us as
talking does to humanoids.
Kira can't help feeling a little insecure about the
fact that she's not capable of sharing it with him.
KIRA
It's a little more... personal
than talking, isn't it?
ODO
I suppose...
KIRA
So. Do I get to meet him?
Odo has the uneasy feeling that this meeting may not
go well.
ODO
If you like.
KIRA
I would.
ODO
Then I'll arrange it.
And off this moment...
19 INT. QUARK'S
Kira is at the bar with BASHIR, EZRI and O'Brien.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 19.
19 CONTINUED:
KIRA
There they are.
Odo and the Changeling approach from the entrance to
the Promenade. The Changeling seems less than
thrilled to be here, but he's going along for Odo's
sake.
ODO
This is Laas.
KIRA BASHIR
Nerys. Julian.
EZRI
Ezri.
O'BRIEN
Miles.
CHANGELING
(even)
We've met.
O'Brien tries to put what happened behind them.
O'BRIEN
Look, I'm sorry. We didn't know
who you were at first. You gave
us a bit of a scare when you
rammed the runabout.
The Changeling says nothing to let O'Brien off the
hook. A beat, then Ezri tries to keep things going.
EZRI
I've always wondered how it would
feel to be able to fly through
space like that.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20.
19 CONTINUED: (2)
CHANGELING
(matter of fact)
It's a shame you're incapable of
experiencing it.
EZRI
(put off)
Guess so...
Odo stares at the Changeling, wishing he'd try a
little harder to make conversation. Another
uncomfortable silence, then Kira steps into the
breach.
KIRA
Tell us about Varala.
BASHIR
No Federation ship's ever been
there.
CHANGELING
It's just like any other planet
that's overrun with humanoids.
Cities and farms everywhere --
other lifeforms displaced from
their habitats. I once migrated
to the southern continent with a
herd of volg. By the time we
returned to the breeding grounds
the next summer, they'd been
fenced off. The herd died out
within two generations.
Our people don't know quite what to say.
CHANGELING
It's the same on any planet where
humanoids thrive. They disrupt
the natural balance.
Just then, Quark arrives with a plate.
QUARK
Who ordered the vilm-steak?
An awkward moment...
BASHIR
Just... keep it warm for me.
QUARK
Whatever you say...
Quark moves off.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20A.
19 CONTINUED: (3)
CHANGELING
The truth is, I prefer the so-
called primitive lifeforms. They
exist as they were meant to,
following their instincts. No
words to get in the way, no lies
or deceptions.
O'BRIEN
We're not the ones who can
disguise ourselves as anything we
want.
After all the things the Changeling's said to him
about humanoids, Odo finds that he's not sure how to
take this.
ODO
Meaning?
CHANGELING
Meaning Shape-shifters aren't to
be trusted.
An uncomfortable moment as O'Brien chafes at having
his words twisted around.
O'BRIEN
I trust Odo.
CHANGELING
Of course you trust Odo. Look at
him. You've convinced him that
he's as limited as you are.
ODO
Laas.
EZRI
(playfully)
He's seen through our evil plan.
BASHIR
Foiled again.
KIRA
It's not funny.
CHANGELING
No, I'm worried for him.
KIRA
Odo can take care of himself.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20B.
19 CONTINUED: (4)
Odo decides to pull the plug on the evening before
it gets any worse.
ODO
Well. Thank you, colonel. It's
been interesting. We should be
going now. If you'll excuse us,
colonel, counselor, chief,
doctor.
(standing)
I'm glad we came by.
(turning to the
door)
Laas...
With a last look our people's way, the Changeling
heads for the door. Odo glances at Kira
apologetically, then follows.
0'BRIEN
(can't resist)
Nice to see you again.
And off our people as they exchange what-was-that-all-
about looks...
20 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL
Odo is confronting the Changeling over what happened
in Quark's.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 21.
20 CONTINUED:
ODO
Was it really necessary to insult
my friends?
CHANGELING
I was merely speaking my mind.
ODO
You could call it that.
CHANGELING
Humanoids are tragic creatures.
They've lost the ability to take
joy from simply existing... yet
they haven't evolved to the next
level -- where consciousness
exists independent of form.
ODO
You're certainly not afraid to
make grand generalizations.
CHANGELING
I've been many things in my time.
I speak from experience.
The Changeling turns to Odo, sees that he's
unconvinced. He smiles, extends his hand.
CHANGELING
Enough talk. Link with me.
ODO
Here?
CHANGELING
Why not?
ODO
I don't think that's a good idea.
The Changeling sees Odo glance at some passersby,
realizes the problem.
CHANGELING
You're embarrassed.
It's true, but Odo doesn't want to admit it.
ODO
No...
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 22.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
CHANGELING
You don't want to do anything to
remind them that you're not truly
a humanoid.
ODO
I don't go out of my way to point
it out, no.
CHANGELING
Why? Are you afraid they'll
reject you?
ODO
(defensive)
I don't like to confront people
with something that might make
them uncomfortable.
CHANGELING
So you deny your true nature in
order to fit in.
ODO
You're reading too much into it.
CHANGELING
Before I came here, when was the
last time you assumed another
form?
Odo hesitates, and that's answer enough for the
Changeling.
CHANGELING
You can't even remember. You've
been pretending to be a humanoid
for so long, it doesn't occur to
you that you can be anything
else.
ODO
That's not true. I've been
involved with other things
lately.
CHANGELING
Like what? Courting Kira? She
can't even Link with you.
ODO
Leave her out of this.
CHANGELING
It won't last.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 23.
20 CONTINUED: (3)
ODO
The fact that your relationship
failed doesn't mean mine will.
CHANGELING
True. If you're lucky, you'll
get to watch her grow old and
die.
ODO
I think you should stay out of my
affairs.
CHANGELING
Odo, I don't want to see you make
the same mistakes I made. You're
wasting your time trying to be a
humanoid. You're limiting
yourself.
The Changeling takes him by the shoulder, tries to
convince him that there's a better way.
CHANGELING
Let's leave, Odo. Let's find the
others. A hundred were sent away
-- they're out there somewhere,
and if we can find even a few of
them, we can form a new Link.
Think of it. We can exist the
way we were meant to. As
Changelings.
And off Odo's face as he grapples with what he's
being offered, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 24.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
21 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS
Since her promotion to colonel, Kira has taken up
residence in a larger set of quarters, the three
window kind. Her belongings from her old quarters
are in evidence here, as well as some recent
acquisitions, including the knickknack Odo gave her.
Odo and Kira are sitting close on the couch, sharing
an intimate moment.
KIRA
I can't believe he actually
thought you'd drop everything and
leave with him.
ODO
He just can't understand why I'd
want to stay.
KIRA
How'd he take it when you said
no?
(off Odo's hesitation)
You did say no, didn't you?
ODO
I told him I'd think about it.
(quickly pointing out why)
I didn't want to dismiss it out of
hand. He would've taken offense.
Kira studies his face...
ODO
Why are you looking at me like
that?
KIRA
It bothers me that he thinks
you're not happy here.
(troubled)
It makes me wonder if he knows
something I don't.
ODO
What makes you say that?
KIRA
He Linked with you.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 25.
21 CONTINUED:
Odo realizes what she's getting at, and that it
troubles her deeply.
KIRA
Something about it must've given
him the impression that you might
want to leave.
ODO
It was just wishful thinking on
his part. The thought of the two
of us going off together to find
the others --
(getting caught up in it)
-- exploring the galaxy as
changelings, it's very alluring.
(catching himself)
To him.
KIRA
Sounds like it's alluring to you,
too.
ODO
(gently reassuring her)
I'm happy here.
A moment, then he pulls her close. Kira snuggles
against his chest for a quiet moment.
KIRA
I'm sorry I can't Link with you.
Even as she says it, she knows the answer -- how
could he not want that? Odo doesn't see any point
in saying it out loud and hurting her feelings, and
so he says the only thing he can say.
ODO
It doesn't matter, Nerys... I
love you...
And it's answer enough. Off the image of them
holding each other close, each lost in their own
thoughts...
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 26.
22 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR
as Odo approaches the door to his quarters.
23 INT. ODO'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)
as Odo ENTERS and stops short when he sees a FLAME
burning in the center of the room, suspended about
a few feet off the ground.
ODO
(instinctively)
Computer, activate fire
suppression sys--
He trails off when the FLAME FLICKERS brightly,
almost as if in reaction to his words. Then it hits
him -- fire doesn't float in the air, the flame is
the Changeling.
ODO
Laas... ?
24 CLOSE - THE FLAME (PRACTICAL EFFECT)
as it FLICKERS again in response.
25 ODO
stares at it, takes a step closer.
ODO
I need to talk to you...
We hear the SOUND of an off-screen morph, then cut
to --
26 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL)
as he just finishes MORPHING into humanoid form. He
studies Odo for a beat with a knowing smile.
CHANGELING
You didn't realize it was me.
Did you even know we could exist
as fire?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 27.
26 CONTINUED:
In truth, Odo didn't.
CHANGELING
I didn't think so. No matter.
Once we're away from here, I'll
teach you to become things you've
never even dreamed of.
He smiles, relishing the thought of the quest
they're about to embark on.
ODO
I'm not leaving. I'm staying
here.
The Changeling can't believe Odo would make such a
mistake.
CHANGELING
(anger flaring)
Why? So you can keep pretending
to be one of them?
Odo doesn't rise to the bait, he's not going to
defend his life here because he doesn't feel he has
to.
ODO
I'm sorry if you're disappointed.
The Changeling dismisses this with a wave of his
hand.
CHANGELING
I'll survive.
(beat)
When I find some of the others,
I'll send for you.
(sure of it)
You'll change your mind and join
us.
ODO
It could be a long time before
you find another Changeling.
CHANGELING
Is that supposed to discourage
me?
ODO
All I'm saying is that you don't
have to leave right away.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 27A.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO (cont'd)
I wouldn't mind the company of
another Changeling. I'm sure you
wouldn't either.
Odo's right, but the Changeling can't resist
needling him.
CHANGELING
All right, Odo, I won't abandon
you to these mono-forms.
(wry smile)
As a favor to you, I'll stay for
a while.
ODO
(dry)
You might as well. If you can't
get along with me, what makes you
think you'll get along with any
other Changeling?
This elicits a rare smile from the Changeling.
CHANGELING
True enough.
(beat)
Just remember, I have no interest
in mono-forms, even if they are
your "friends."
ODO
After what happened in Quark's, I
don't think you have to worry
about an overcrowded social
schedule.
CHANGELING
Good.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 26.
26 CONTINUED: (3)
A moment between them, then he extends his hand to
Odo, who reaches and takes it.
27 CLOSE - THEIR HANDS (OPTICAL)
as they begin to MORPH together...
28 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Re-establishing.
29 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo is working at his desk, studying a PADD. A
beat, then something catches his attention out on
the Promenade.
30 INT. PROMENADE
The area is covered with a thick GROUND FOG. TWO
BAJORAN CHILDREN run and play in it, until their
MOTHER rushes out and pulls them away. TWO KLINGONS
can be seen surveying the goings on suspiciously.
31 O'BRIEN AND BASHIR
stand in the center of the Promenade, puzzled by the
mist swirling around their feet.
O'BRIEN
(annoyed)
Great. The environmental
system's out again.
BASHIR
There goes our holosuite
reservation...
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 29.
31 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
I'm going to find out what the
problem is.
Odo steps toward them.
ODO
Don't bother, Chief. There's
nothing wrong with the
environmental system.
O'BRIEN
Then where's this fog coming
from?
ODO
It's not fog. It's Laas.
O'BRIEN
(unnerved)
Laas?
Bashir and O'Brien exchange an uncomfortable look --
there's something creepy about knowing there's a
lifeform swirling at your feet.
BASHIR
What's he doing?
Odo's annoyed with Laas for doing this, but even so,
he's a little irked by their reactions.
ODO
Being fog, what's it look like?
O'BRIEN
Can't he be fog somewhere else?
BASHIR
Or at night, when no one's
around?
ODO
He's not hurting anyone.
O'BRIEN
Still. It's... creepy.
BASHIR
(re: the fog)
Careful, Miles. He might hear
you.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 29A.
31 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
Good.
With that, they move off. Odo frowns at the fog,
addresses it.
ODO
Laas.
The fog ignores him.
ODO
Laas.
32 THE FOG (PRACTICAL EFFECT)
as it starts to SWIRL and COALESCE at a single point
on the Promenade.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "'Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 30.
33 ODO
notices the two Klingons watching this with scowls
on their faces.
33A THE FOG (OPTICAL)
as it starts to come together to form a humanoid
shape.
33B ODO
as he crosses away from the Klingons, toward the
point where the fog is coming together.
34 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL)
as he just finishes MORPHING into humanoid form.
Odo approaches him with a frown.
ODO
Congratulations. You managed to
disrupt the entire Promenade.
CHANGELING
I was just relaxing.
ODO
If you want to "relax," do it in
private.
CHANGELING
Did I embarrass you?
Suddenly a voice rings out
KLINGON
Ka'vek! (You there!)
Odo and the Changeling turn to see the two Klingons
standing nearby.
KLINGON
What is that Founder doing here?
ODO
He's not a Founder. Now move
along.
The Klingon knows better than to tangle with Odo,
but he can't resist a parting shot the Changeling's
way.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 31.
34 CONTINUED:
KLINGON
Don't change form in my presence
again.
CHANGELING
I change form where I please.
The Klingon bristles, glaring at the Changeling.
CHANGELING
(to Odo)
Look at him. Look at the hate in
his eyes.
ODO
Laas.
KLINGON
Your hands are stained with the
blood of Klingon warriors.
CHANGELING
(raising his hands
palm up)
But then, the stench would still
be on them.
KLINGON
P'tak!
The Klingon unsheathes the KNIFE hanging from his
belt, brandishes it threateningly. The moment hangs
in the air for a beat, then the Changeling holds up
his hand and --
34A A KNIFE MORPHS (OPTICAL)
into his grip.
CHANGELING
Mine's bigger.
KLINGON
(defend yourself!)
Ke'chaw!
Odo lunges forward, disarming the Klingon.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 32.
35 THE SECOND KLINGON
goes for his belt -- from which hang both a KNIFE
and a DISRUPTOR.
36 THE CHANGELING
reacts instinctively, snaps his arm toward the
second Klingon. We hear a sharp metallic SOUND and
cut to --
37 THE SECOND KLINGON
impaled on the BLADE of the Changeling's knife,
which he's extended by a few feet.
38 ODO
reacting to this deadly turn of events.
39 THE SECOND KLINGON (OPTICAL)
as the BLADE quickly RETRACTS to its former length
and he falls to the ground dead.
40 ODO
turns to Laas, who's standing over the dead Klingon.
Off this moment we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 33.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
41 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE
Sisko, Odo and WORF are discussing what happened.
SISKO
(grim)
Doctor Bashir wasn't able to save
the Klingon's life. General
Martok has asked that Laas be
detained until the magistrate has
determined jurisdiction.
ODO
Jurisdiction?
SISKO
The Klingons want to extradite
him.
ODO
That's ridiculous. He killed
that Klingon in self-defense.
WORF
That is in dispute.
ODO
He was about to draw his
disruptor.
WORF
According to the other Klingon,
he was reaching for his dagger.
SISKO
(to Odo)
Are you saying that's not true?
ODO
It happened too fast. But their
intentions were obvious. One of
them put a knife in his chest.
SISKO
The Klingons are arguing that
since Laas knew he couldn't be
harmed by a knife, he wasn't
justified in responding with
deadly force.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 34.
41 CONTINUED:
Odo's heard enough -- it's clear to him what's
really going on.
ODO
Since when do Klingons resort to
legal quibbling? They get
involved in fights all the time
and never file charges. It isn't
"honorable."
Odo's right, but neither Sisko nor Worf seem too
interested in questioning their motives.
SISKO
In this case, they're choosing to
exercise their rights under the
law.
ODO
Sir, they're only doing this
because they distrust
changelings.
WORF
He should not have provoked them.
ODO
Provoked them? They attacked
Laas.
SISKO
(off a PADD)
They're claiming that he
"surrounded them menacingly."
It takes Odo a moment to realize what they mean.
ODO
They felt menaced? By fog?
But Sisko doesn't dismiss it that easily.
SISKO
They weren't the only ones.
Twelve other people filed
complaints.
ODO
Is it a crime to shape-shift on
the Promenade?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 35.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
It may not be a crime, but
obviously it's not a good idea.
Odo stares at Sisko in disbelief. All the things
Laas has said to him about how humanoids hate
changelings are echoing in his head.
ODO
You're going to allow the
Klingons extradite him... knowing
they won't give him a fair
trial...
SISKO
It's not my decision. It's up to
the magistrate.
ODO
But you'd just as soon be rid of
him. You didn't want him on the
station in the first place. I
practically had to beg you to let
him out of that holding cell.
SISKO
(sharp)
That's enough, Constable.
Odo stiffens, holds his tongue.
SISKO
Now. General Martok has
expressed concerns about our
security arrangements.
ODO
Meaning?
SISKO
He doesn't feel it's appropriate
that you be in charge of the
prisoner.
Odo bristles at hearing this.
ODO
May I ask why?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36.
41 CONTINUED: (3)
They both know why, because Odo's a changeling. But
the official legal reason is this:
SISKO
Because you're a witness to the
alleged crime.
ODO
(sardonic)
That's a relief. For a moment I
thought you were going to say
it's because I'm a changeling.
And with that, he turns and EXITS. Off Sisko and
Worf as they watch him go...
41A INT. PROMENADE/SECURITY OFFICE
Odo is heading for his office when Quark calls out
to him.
QUARK
Odo.
(approaching)
I heard about your friend. Rumor
has it the Klingons want to put
him on trial.
ODO
(heading inside)
They're the ones who should be on
trial. If they'd attacked anyone
other than a changeling, they
would be.
Odo is expecting Quark to disagree with him, but
instead --
QUARK
You're probably right.
Odo looks at him with surprise.
QUARK
That fog episode certainly didn't
help matters.
ODO
He was only doing what comes
naturally to us.
QUARK
You've never pulled a stunt like
that.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36A.
41A CONTINUED:
QUARK (Cont'd)
You're smart enough to know
people don't want to be reminded
that you're different.
(with a shiver)
Who wants to see someone turn
into goo? I hope you don't do
that around Kira.
ODO
Why shouldn't I?
QUARK
If she's anything like me. She'd
rather you didn't. We humanoids
are the product of millions of
years of evolution. Our
ancestors learned the hard way
that what you don't know might
kill you. They wouldn't have
survived if they hadn't jumped
back when they encountered a
snake coiled in the muck. And
now millions of years later, that
instinct is still there.
Quark has an agenda here -- he's worried for Odo,
but he's not about to come out and say so.
QUARK
It's genetic. Our tolerance for
other lifeforms doesn't extend
beyond the two arm, two leg
variety. I hate to break it to
you, but when you're in your
natural state, you're more than
our poor old genes can handle.
ODO
(dismissive)
What are you saying, Quark? That
the Klingons couldn't help what
they did because of their genes?
QUARK
I'm not trying to excuse what
they did. I'm only telling you
why it happened.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36B.
41A CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK (Cont'd)
(concerned for his
friend)
Watch your step, Odo. We're at
war with your people. This is no
time for a changeling pride
demonstration on the Promenade.
And with that, Quark turns and EXITS. Off Odo's
face as he watches him go...
42 INT. HOLDING CELLS
A BAJORAN DEPUTY mans the security console. Odo
ENTERS and approaches him, chafing at having to ask
one of his own people for permission to see a
prisoner.
DEPUTY
Constable.
ODO
I'd like to have a few minutes
alone with the prisoner.
The Deputy is loyal to his commanding officer, and
embarrassed about having to do this.
DEPUTY
Sorry, sir. I have my orders.
Odo nods, moves to the Holding Cell.
43 THE CHANGELING
is sitting on the back bench. He looks up at him as
he approaches, regards him with a resigned air.
ODO
I don't know what to say...
CHANGELING
You could say that you were
wrong. That the people here are
no different from any other
humanoids.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 37.
43 CONTINUED:
Odo doesn't have the heart to defend them anymore.
ODO
Hopefully this will all get
straightened out at your hearing.
CHANGELING
(dry)
I'm sure it will be fair and
impartial.
ODO
Just tell them exactly what
happened.
CHANGELING
My word against a humanoid's?
Who do you think this magistrate
is going to believe?
Considering what happened, Odo's afraid the answer
is all too clear.
ODO
I shouldn't have convinced you to
stay here. If I'd let you go,
none of this would've happened.
CHANGELING
My only consolation is that this
may finally make you understand
you don't belong here. You saw
the hatred in that Klingon's
eyes. Maybe now you'll recognize
it when you see it hiding in the
faces of your so-called friends.
He moves close to the plain of the forcefield,
trying to drive home his point.
CHANGELING
They tolerate you because you
emulate them. What higher
flattery is there? "I, who can
be anything, choose to be like
you."
(beat)
But even when you make yourself
in their image, they know that
you aren't truly one of them.
What you appear to be doesn't
reflect what you really are.
It's only a mask.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 38.
43 CONTINUED: (2)
CHANGELING (Cont'd)
What lies underneath is alien to
them. So they fear it... and
their fear can turn to hate in
the blink of an eye...
And off Odo's face as he ponders his words...
44 INT. ODO'S QUARTERS
Kira is trying to calm an agitated Odo.
ODO
They're going to extradite him.
KIRA
You don't know that.
ODO
Yes, I do. And no one's going to
do anything to stop it.
KIRA
There's not much anyone can do.
ODO
If he weren't a changeling, the
captain would find a way to
intervene.
KIRA
That's not fair.
ODO
Isn't it?
KIRA
You're starting to sound like
Laas.
ODO
Maybe that's because I'm starting
to see things more clearly now.
KIRA
What does that mean?
ODO
(taking her by the
shoulders)
Look at me, Nerys. What do you
see?
Kira's not sure what he's getting at.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 39.
44 CONTINUED:
KIRA
I see you.
ODO
No. This is just a form I've
borrowed. I could just as easily
be someone else or something
else.
KIRA
I know that. But...
(taking his
shoulders)
... this is what you've chosen to
be. A man whose good and
honorable. And who I fell in
love with.
(pained)
Are you telling me that man never
really existed?
ODO
(anguished)
I don't know...
He turns away, trying to sort out what he's feeling.
ODO
I care about you more than anyone
I've ever known... these last few
months have been the happiest of
my life.
(a difficult
admission)
But even so, a part of me wishes
that Laas and I were out there
right now -- searching for the
others, existing as changelings.
Because that's what I am. Not a
humanoid, a changeling.
He turns away from her, not knowing how to deal with
the turmoil inside him. After a long moment...
KIRA
(softly)
You're right. Maybe you should
be out there...
And with that, she turns and EXITS.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 40.
44 CONTINUED: (2)
Off Odo as he gazes out at the stars...
45 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Re-establishing.
46 INT. HOLDING CELLS (OPTICAL)
Kira ENTERS and approaches the Guard at his console.
DEPUTY
Can I help you, colonel?
KIRA
I need to talk to the prisoner.
(beat)
Alone.
DEPUTY
Aye, sir.
He heads for the door and EXITS. Kira moves to the
Holding Cell, looks in on the Changeling.
They regard each other for a long beat, then Kira
reaches and works the control PANEL on the wall and
the forcefield FRITZES OFF. He looks at her with
surprise.
KIRA
Go to the third planet in the
Koralis System. There's an
orbital tether running down to an
abandoned mining complex. I'll
tell Odo to meet you there.
He stares at her suspiciously.
CHANGELING
Is this some kind of trick?
Kira shakes her head in disbelief.
KIRA
Do you want to get out of here or
not?
He decides she's telling the truth, steps toward the
entrance to the holding cell.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 41.
46 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(pointing it out)
That vent. It'll lead you
through some conduits to an
airlock.
Before going, he studies her face for a beat, trying
to make sense of her unexpected gesture.
CHANGELING
Why?
A beat.
KIRA
Because I love him.
He stares at her as if she's belying everything he's
ever thought about humanoids. And off the moment
between them we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 42.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
47 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE
Sisko, Odo, and Worf are reacting to Kira's news.
SISKO
Escaped? How did he get through
the containment field?
KIRA
I can't explain it, all I can
tell you is what I saw. He
turned himself into some kind
of... plasma energy and forced
his way through.
("kicking herself")
Before I could stop him, he
disappeared into an air vent.
Odo has to fight to keep from showing that he's
privately pleased about the changeling's escape.
WORF
According to the operations log,
one of the airlocks was activated
shortly after that.
SISKO
If he left the station, why
didn't our sensors detect him?
WORF
A Corvallen Freighter was leaving
at about the same time. He must
have shadowed it to keep from
being spotted.
KIRA
He could be anywhere by now.
Sisko takes this in with a grim nod.
SISKO
General Martok's not going to be
happy about this...
WORF
By fleeing, the changeling has
demonstrated his guilt.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 43.
47 CONTINUED:
ODO
(sardonic)
Either that, or his lack of faith
in our justice system.
Worf stiffens, but ignores Odo's remark --
WORF
He must be apprehended and
brought to trial.
SISKO
(to Worf)
Have all available runabouts
begin a sector-wide search.
WORF
Aye, sir.
ODO
(under his breath)
Good luck...
Sisko shoots Odo a pointed look.
SISKO
It may be a long shot, but I'm
sure you agree that we should do
everything we can to find him.
ODO
Of course.
SISKO
Dismissed.
Off Sisko as he watches the others file out...
48 INT. OPS
Odo and Kira are stepping into the turbolift as Worf
returns to his console.
49 INT. TURBOLIFT
ODO
Level Nine.
As the Turbolift starts to descend, Kira turns to
study Odo's face.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 44.
49 CONTINUED:
KIRA
You didn't hide it very well.
(off his look)
That you're glad he got away.
Odo feels he can be honest with her now that they're
alone. He allows himself a small smile, almost
proud of what the changeling did.
ODO
I should've known he'd be able to
escape. What's a forcefield to a
changeling with his abilities?
Kira takes a beat, decides it's time to tell him the
truth.
KIRA
You said you wish you were out
there with him. It's not too
late.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 45.
49 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO
I don't understand...
KIRA
He's waiting for you. At an
abandoned mine on Koralis Three.
Odo stares at her, realizing there's only one way
she could know this.
ODO
You helped him escape...
Kira doesn't deny it. Odo stares at her, trying to
understand what she did.
KIRA
I don't want you to stay here out
of some sense of obligation.
(beat)
Good luck. I hope you find what
you're looking for.
The lift slows to a STOP, and with a last look Odo's
way, Kira EXITS. Off Odo's face as he grapples with
what to do...
50 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (STOCK OPTICAL)
as it orbits a PLANET.
51 INT. CAVES
A few SUPPORT BEAMS are visible, as well as some
abandoned mining EQUIPMENT. A faint LIGHT filters
in from a jagged hole in the rockface above.
Odo ENTERS with a PALM BEACON, shines it around the
gloomy cave.
ODO
Laas... ?
The Changeling steps out from the shadows, breaks
into a grin.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 46.
51 CONTINUED:
CHANGELING
I knew you'd come. This is a new
beginning for us, Odo. A new
beginning for our people.
(relishing the thought)
You and I are about to embark on
the adventure of our lives.
The Changeling sees something in Odo's face.
CHANGELING
What's wrong?
ODO
I'm not going with you.
CHANGELING
(anger flaring)
Then why are you here?
ODO
I came to say good-bye.
CHANGELING
Don't be a fool. What are you
holding on to? Kira? Even she
knows this is what's best for
you. Why else would she have
helped me escape?
ODO
You really don't know, do you?
You don't have any idea of what
it means to love someone enough
to let them go.
CHANGELING
She let you go so you could find
out where you belong.
ODO
I know where I belong.
(beat)
Humanoids aren't the petty,
limited creatures you perceive
them to be. What Nerys did
should prove that even to you.
CHANGELING
(dismissive)
Love conquers all, is that it?
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 47.
51 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO
I'm sorry you don't understand.
You've done many things, been
many things -- but you've never
known love.
CHANGELING
Compared to the Link, it's a pale
shadow -- a feeble attempt to
compensate for the isolation
mono-forms feel because they're
trapped inside themselves.
ODO
Maybe the fact that it's not easy
is what makes it worthwhile.
CHANGELING
Odo, the Founders are dying.
This could be your last chance to
exist as you were meant to.
Don't throw it away.
But Odo's made his decision.
ODO
You'd better go. They're looking
for you.
The Changeling searches Odo's face, sees that
there's nothing more he can say.
ODO
Good luck...
Odo extends his hand to him, offering one final
Link. But the Changeling will have none of it.
CHANGELING
And to you, Odo. You'll need it
more than I.
And with that, he turns and heads for the surface.
Off Odo's face as he watches him go...
52 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Re-establishing.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 48.
53 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS
Kira is standing before the Bajoran Altar in her
room, praying softly. She looks like she's been
crying -- the resolve with which she said good-bye to
Odo gave way to tears in the privacy of her
quarters.
KIRA
Watch over him... help him find
his way.
A moment, then the door CHIMES.
KIRA
Yes.
The door OPENS, revealing Odo. Their eyes lock
across the room for a long moment...
KIRA
I didn't think I'd see you
again...
ODO
I couldn't go...
A long beat, then they move into each other's arms,
hold each other close...
KIRA
(softly)
Odo, if I've ever made you feel
that you can't be yourself when
you're with me, I'm sorry. I
want to know you -- the way you
really are.
A moment as they look into each other's eyes. Odo
looks at her questioningly, and she nods as if to
say go ahead. A beat, then...
54 ODO (OPTICAL)
quickly MORPHS upward in a SWIRL of motion.
DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 49.
55 KIRA
as she reacts, looks up toward the ceiling.
INTERACTIVE LIGHT plays on her face.
56 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
revealing that Odo has become a gossamer cloud of
plasma-like ENERGY, an aurora borealis of golden
color and light. She watches in wonder, then the
cloud descends around her, wrapping her inside its
dancing light.
She reacts to the sensation... her eyes close, and
we get the sense that she and Odo are communing on a
level they've never been able to share before. A
moment, then she smiles... the lights subtly change
in hue and tone as if in response. Off this image,
we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END